Driving in China with a foreign licence
Driving in China: IDP not recognised for foreign visitors — driving side, minimum age and how to get your International Driving Permit online.
Do you need an IDP to drive in China?
China does NOT recognise International Driving Permits. Visitors must obtain a temporary Chinese driving permit to drive legally. An International Driving Permit is an official translation of your national driver's licence into multiple languages — it never replaces your home licence, so always carry both, along with your passport.
What to carry when driving in China
- Your valid national driver's licence
- Your International Driving Permit (IDP) — note: not recognised here, see below
- Your passport and rental documents
How to get your IDP for China
You don't need to visit an office. Get your International Driving Permit online with International DL in minutes — we translate your licence into the official UN-convention languages and issue your IDP digitally, ready before you fly.
Driving to China soon?
Get your digital International Driving Permit in minutes and drive worry-free.
Get my IDP →Other countries
Read more in our travel guides.
Driving rules change and can vary by region and nationality. Always confirm the current requirements with the official transport authority or embassy of China before you travel.